An esophagram, or contrast esophagram (also called a barium swallow), is a series of x-rays of your esophagus. For an esophagram, you will be asked to drink a barium sulfate liquid while x-rays are taken of the swallowing process. As the liquid moves from the mouth down to the esophagus, the physician can assess any narrowing, enlargement or abnormalities. You will most likely be asked not to eat or drink for 8 to 10 hours prior to the test.
An Update Regarding Seasonal Illnesses
To help prevent the spread of seasonal respiratory illnesses, we strongly encourage all visitors to wear a mask while in ambulatory clinics or inpatient units. Surgical masks are available at hospital and clinic entrances. Patients with respiratory illnesses should also wear masks. Thank you for helping protect our patients, staff, and community.